Published on Thursday, 31 July 2025 at 9:42:43 AM
The mosquito risk season has commenced under difficult conditions, with recent heavy rainfall accelerating egg hatching and sustaining high numbers of mosquito larvae.
Surveys conducted by the Shire’s Environmental Health Team have identified extensive mosquito breeding areas, spanning from Forrest Beach Road in the south to Harewoods Road in the north.
To mitigate mosquito populations and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, the Shire is working in partnership with the WA Department of Health to initiate the annual aerial larvicide treatment program, beginning in August.
Prior to larvicide treatment, the Shire must submit comprehensive scientific data to the Department of Health, including:
• Locations and size of breeding sites
• The density of larva over specific areas
• Water depth and temperature
• Recommended larvicide and application rates
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The effectiveness of aerial treatment is highly dependent on precise timing, which is influenced by both weather conditions and larval development stages. If larvae mature beyond a certain point, larvicides treatments become ineffective.
Adult mosquitoes have already emerged around the Peppermint Grove Beach wetlands. Unfortunately, persistent poor weather including high winds, rain and low visibility has prevented aerial treatments from starting. While conditions within the Shire may be suitable, adverse weather at Jandakot Airport can also delay deployment of the helicopter.
As of 28th July, the 10-day weather forecast indicates continued unfavourable conditions, which will further hinder treatment efforts and likely lead to increased mosquito numbers.
The Shire’s Environmental Health Team will continue monitoring weather conditions and surveying breeding sites and is prepared to commence aerial operations as soon as conditions allow.
📸 Environmental Health Officer undertaking pre-treatment surveys for potential helicopter treatment. Air temperature 8 °C, water Temperature 11 °C.
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